Under the Influence?

Believe it or not, sometimes it's good to be under the influence. I know, you're probably thinking I'm crazy right now but there's a method to the madness.

It's good to be under the influence of:

• Teachers - Most times, teachers are encouraging indivduals that are willing and dedicated to helping you suceed in life. They push you to get your best work and they're usually open to listening when you need to talk. It's important to remember that teachers are people too; they usually understand exactly what you're talking about. They typically have a couple years experience on you.
• Parents - Most times, your parents are people who want the best for you and will do anything for you. They love you no matter who you are or what you turn out to be. The unconditional love is important.
• Spouses - If your spouse keeps you in line, cares for you, and/or helps you to succeed, they can be the best thing in your life. It's good to know when is too much though.
• Fashion - Yes, trends come and go but they're never really life threatening. I would say it's okay to be under the influence of any fashion you'd like.
• Religion -  Too much of anything is potenially bad. However, faith can be one of those things that keeps you holding on from day to day. It can give you hope, peace, and love in your life.

It's obvious that you should not be under the influence of some things. However, the line can sometimes blur. It's more of a gray area; not black & white. Friends, spouses, movies, music, parents, teachers, religion. It can all be good if the circumstances are right. It takes a person with keen judgement to decide what is okay and what is not. If your friends are pressuring you into drugs, sex, or something else you think is wrong, their influence is bad for you. If your spouse beats you or holds you back, they aren't good for you either. Movies and music can inspire; they can enhance a mood and even change a life. However, others can make you feel hopeless and helpless; they can encourgae drug use, sex, and other things just as easily as the average person.

This is the million dollar question. If it were cut and dried, no one would have the problems they do with getting mixed up in terrible things. If your gut tells you it's wrong, don't question it. It's typically right. If you really don't know, my advice would be to hold off and come back to the issue later. If you can't or you still don't know, poll people. Ask people who you know are positive influences.

Hope this helps<3